I wasn’t sure how to make it work for the shower but I was determined to do so.  And, I am happy to say, not only did it work, it was awesome.  The flavors came together to create a refreshing palate cleanser and everyone loved them.

My son Matthew came up with the brilliant idea of placing the bowls of the spoons in a vintage deviled egg dish.

Because I made these ahead I had to allow for the juice that was going to occur. I compensated by using a 1/2 tsp. of gelatin in the berries. These were so good, I just can’t tell you… you need to try them. And look how cute!

Balsamic Strawberries with Basil

• 1 quart of ripe strawberries, stemmed and chopped coarsely
• 2 tablespoons sugar, or to taste
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 tsp fresh ground black pepper
• about 4 large basil leaves finely sliced
• 1/2 tsp unflavored gelatin
• 2 tbs hot water

1. Dissolve the gelatin in the water.
2. Mix the berries and the rest of the ingredients, except the gelatin, together in a bowl. Allow to stand for a few minutes. Taste and adjust flavors.
3. Stir in the gelatin thoroughly but gently., appetizer, tea party, amuse bouche,
4. Chill until ready to use, at least 2 hours
5. Mound the mixture in spoons, garnish with basil cut on a chiffonade.
6. Makes about 3 cups, enough for a multitude of spoons

image: marye audet

Post from: Baking Delights

Was it worth it?

Yeah. Big time.

First of all I added 1 cup of white chocolate chips to the batter…see, not a big deal at all..but the batter tasted so good..so sweet and I wanted to balance that out..with something…

but what? Hmmm…..What did I have in the fridge? Blueberries!

But they are so sweet…I needed some elusive flavor..but what? Aha!

yes. Chipotle!

So I came up with the most incrredible sauce…to serve with this incredible cake.

Blueberry Chipotle Sauce

(to go with the blueberry bundt cake (with white chocolate)

2 c blueberries

1 c water

1 c sugar

2 Tablespoons of balsamic vinegar

1-3 teaspoons of dried chipotle

cook the blueberies in the water with sugar until they start to swell and pop. Stir often. Blend them quickly in a blender, just until sauce is formed, leave some texture. Taste for sweetness. If it is very sweet you may want to add a bit more balsamic that the 2 TBS I called for.

Add the vinegar and chipotle. Simmer until reduced by half. Taste and check for flavor balance.

Serve with the cake.

Post from: Baking Delights